Non Profit Postage
How to Get Approved for Non-Profit Postage Discounts
Before proceeding, if your organization is not yet incorporated as a non-profit, we recommend visiting our Non-Profit Incorporation Guide to complete that step first.
Fortunately, getting approval for USPS® non-profit postage discounts is a straightforward process. Essentially, all it takes is filling out PS Form 3624, the Application to Mail at Nonprofit USPS® Marketing Mail Prices. At Cornerstone, we have spent over two decades assisting non-profit organizations with the approval process. To simplify this for you, here are five essential steps to guide most applicants:
Step 1
First and foremost, download the most recent version of the non-profit postage rate application directly from the USPS®. By doing this, you ensure that you have the latest version of the form. Click here to access the application.
Step 2
If your organization holds an IRS 501(c)(3) classification, you are already more than halfway through the approval process. Generally speaking, the USPS® relies on the due diligence already conducted by the IRS when granting non-profit postage rates. As a result, an IRS 501(c)(3) classification typically leads to quick approval.
Step 3
While completing your documentation checklist, provide clear examples that demonstrate how your organization follows its articles of incorporation and mission statement. Essentially, the USPS® wants to confirm that your organization consistently operates within its stated purpose. For this reason, including supporting documents that showcase your activities will strengthen your application.
Step 4
Accuracy is crucial, especially when it comes to your legal name. For instance, if your organization operates under a DBA (Doing Business As) instead of its legal name, you must clearly specify this on the application. Otherwise, the USPS® will return the application for corrections, which could delay your approval.
Step 5
Where to send your completed application?
Submit your application in person or by mail to your local Post Office or, preferably, to the regional BMEU (Bulk Mail Entry Unit) where you plan to send mailings. If you are unsure about the location of your regional BMEU, you can find it here.
Still uncertain? You can also contact the USPS® PSCS in New York for guidance. Alternatively, you may mail the completed application directly to their address.
What If You’re Not an IRS 501(c)(3) Organization?
That’s completely fine! Even if your organization does not have 501(c)(3) status, you may still qualify for non-profit postage rates. Fortunately, other approval pathways exist. Simply reach out to us, and we will assess your eligibility. For all CRST clients, we provide this guidance at no cost.
Need an Immediate Mailing?
If you have an urgent mailing and cannot afford to wait the few weeks it may take for USPS® PCSC approval, CRST can assist you. In most cases, we can apply non-profit postage rate discounts retroactively—as long as we submit your application at the same time as your first mailing.
For full-service assistance, contact us to receive our Not-for-Profit “Letter of Guidance”. This custom-crafted document helps each organization navigate the application process with ease. Barring any rare exceptions, we have never had an organization denied approval—as long as they carefully follow this Letter of Guidance.
Short of very unusual circumstances, we have yet to have an organization be declined for acceptance, provided it follows this Letter of Guidance without fail.